The 13-week course supports lay leaders, identified through churches who have already partnered with our Congregational Development Programme, to root their action in prayer and theology, and helps them grow in capacity and confidence as disciples – transforming their lives, congregations and the wider community.
To date, the programme has developed 75 lay leaders from 10 congregations in East London.
The next programme has not yet been confirmed but is likely to be Spring 2025. If you would like to find out more please contact Miriam Brittenden.
Below are some quotes and photos of past participants and their clergy:
“Wagstaff reaffirmed that the Holy Spirit works through his people, calling us into who we are meant to be. Practically, seeing the organising method in a faith context was hugely impactful and meaningful.”
“I felt like I understood myself better after the programme, and how to connect my life experience with other people… how openly speaking about your own story can influence others.”
“I feel confident after doing the course in taking action … I don’t feel afraid of challenging power and asking questions… the course has given me a framework to do this.”
“Wagstaff was the platform where I could learn to have a voice and to express my rage in a positive way, to speak up and take action.”
“Wagstaff has encouraged me to keep developing leaders who can serve more in church. Boldness for me will be to encourage others more so I can step back and develop other areas of my public and private life where I feel I am being called.”
“The church has moved from a place where I, the pastor, do everything, to a place where we have raised leaders that can step up…I’ve worked myself out of a job… Wagstaff gave people the tools and context. People have developed a sense of ‘I can do this’.”
